Backpacking: 10 Places To Explore In Your Own Backyard

Backpacking: 10 places To backpack In Your Own backyard

What better way to soak up the sun than in the heart of some of Canada’s most beautiful parks while backpacking? Get your backpack and free Canada 150th Parks ready for one of these epic hikes. Plus, once the sun sets, listen to your favourite country campfire songs under the stars.

Warsaw Caves
Pack your best flashlight! This Ontario Conservation area offers the reward of a stunning look out view on a 15km trail. Apparently bats left the caves long ago, so don’t be afraid to explore.

Spencer Creek Gorge
This gorge has a lot to offer the avid hiker. With hundreds of kilometres of trails you can take in the rush of Webster’s Falls. You can also experience the history of the Bruce Trail by backpacking through the oldest and longest marked trail in Canada.

Nahanni National Park Reserve
Looking for a reason to visit the Yukon? This is it. Imagine over millions of acres of amazing and seemingly untouched landscape (mountains, rivers, tundra etc) right in front of you. Experienced hikers and kayakers can also enjoy the thrill of multi-day excursions in the foliage and waters of Nahanni National Park.

Bay of Fundy
One of New Brunswick’s must-see destinations, the Bay of Fundy is an essential for east coast exploration. From whale watching to island hopping get out and see what this beautiful spot has to offer.

Bruce Peninsula National Park
Put your backpacking skills to the test at the Bruce Peninsula Park and try bouldering. Remember to proceed with caution as the location is remote. For a more relaxed experience rent a yurt and kick back by the fire.

Kag Trail
Experienced hikers need apply to this trail full of huge trees and rocky terrain. Make sure you’ve got your hiking boots and emergency kit packed and take it slow on this steep and tricky trail.

Sleeping Giant Park
Admire Lake Superior as you take on the winding paths of this park. Animal lovers will be able to sneak peeks of moose and lynx while also taking in the view of the unique namesake rock formation. Remember to bring along your mountain bike to cruise on the trails.

West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island
What better way to discover the beauty of the west coast than a 7 day hike on Vancouver Island? Pacific Rim Park isn’t just home to a 75km hiking trail, but also comfort camping options for less active explorers.

Gros Morne National Park
Newfoundland and Labrador is home to many natural wonders especially Gros Morne Park. Try taking a guided 2-hour hike through the rocky tablelands. Or see the still waters of Western Brook Pond or climb its gorge.

Terra Nova National Park
Stroll between coves and watch whales at this sea-side national park. Backcountry and frontcountry camping are both allowed at this spot with over 80kms of hiking to keep you busy.

Photo: Julia Cook/CBC

Which park is your favourite? Which one have you already done? Share with the links below!